Madrid: A Thriving Hub for Film and Television Productions

Madrid continues to cement its reputation as one of Europe’s most vibrant and versatile filming destinations. According to the Madrid Film Office, the city served as the backdrop for 41 films, 55 television series, and over 410 commercials in 2023, reflecting its growing appeal among both local and international filmmakers. This surge underscores Madrid’s strategic role in the global film and television industry, driven by its combination of cutting-edge infrastructure, diverse urban landscapes, and strong public sector support.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Rafael García Alonso, head of the Madrid Film Office, highlighted that the city’s success stems not only from its aesthetic appeal but also from its ability to provide comprehensive production support. “Madrid offers production companies not just locations, but a full-service ecosystem that includes a talented local workforce, state-of-the-art studios, and a vibrant creative community,” Alonso explained. This holistic approach ensures Madrid remains competitive on the global stage, attracting everything from independent art-house films to major streaming series.

The film and television sector also brings significant economic benefits to the city. Beyond direct spending on productions, Madrid has cultivated a robust ecosystem that supports local jobs and businesses, from catering and logistics to post-production services. This makes Madrid not only a creative powerhouse but also a key economic player in Spain and Europe.

A City Brought to Life on Screen

Madrid’s cinematic appeal lies in its ability to double as a wide range of locations while retaining its distinctive character. Productions such as Money Heist (La Casa de Papel), Elite, and Pain and Glory have highlighted the city’s versatility, showcasing everything from gritty urban settings to elegant historic backdrops. This adaptability has made Madrid a favourite for filmmakers from Spain and beyond.

The city’s growing reputation as a filming hub has inspired an ambitious programme of activities aimed at connecting its cinematic identity with tourism. These initiatives highlight how Madrid blends its heritage as a creative centre with efforts to engage visitors in innovative and immersive ways.

Connecting Film and Tourism: Initiatives in Madrid

Madrid has embraced its cinematic heritage as a key component of its tourism strategy. From guided tours to cultural exhibitions, the city offers unique opportunities for visitors to explore its iconic on-screen locations:

• “Madrid en la Pantalla” Guided Tours
  Organised by the Madrid Film Office, these summer walking tours bring the city’s cinematic history to life. Held weekly from July to September, they feature sites from classic and contemporary productions, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Madrid’s role in cinema.
• Urban Map of Almodóvar’s Madrid
  A collaboration between the Madrid City Council and Ocho y Medio Libros de Cine, this map showcases 272 locations featured in Pedro Almodóvar’s 23 Madrid-based films. The map complements the “Madrid, Chica Almodóvar” exhibition, celebrating the director’s deep connection to the city and offering fans a way to explore his cinematic world.
• “El Madrid de Concha Velasco” Route
  Honouring one of Spain’s most celebrated actresses, this walking route includes 20 locations associated with Concha Velasco’s career, offering visitors a journey through some of her most memorable film moments.
• “Madrid desde el Cine” Publication
  Presented by Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida, this book chronicles the city’s cinematic evolution over the past century, covering films shot in all 21 districts. It serves as a historical and cultural guide, promoting Madrid’s lesser-known neighbourhoods as filming locations and tourist attractions.

Madrid’s Vision: Blending Culture and Opportunity

Madrid’s success as a film hub and its innovative approach to integrating cinema into tourism are setting a high standard for other cities. By combining production infrastructure with cultural initiatives, Madrid ensures its cinematic identity resonates with both filmmakers and visitors.

As Rafael García Alonso remarked, “Madrid’s success is not just about attracting productions—it’s about creating a city that supports filmmakers, celebrates its culture, and offers audiences a chance to step into the worlds they see on screen.” This dual focus on creativity and tourism has not only strengthened Madrid’s global profile but also cemented its place as a dynamic cultural capital.

A Blueprint for the Future

Madrid’s thriving film industry and its innovative tourism offerings provide a blueprint for other cities looking to combine cinematic and cultural appeal. From the success of high-profile productions to immersive activities like Madrid en la Pantalla, the city demonstrates how film and tourism can work hand in hand.

By investing in its creative industries and celebrating its cinematic heritage, Madrid ensures its place as a destination where stories come to life—on screen and in real life. With its forward-thinking strategies, Madrid is well-poised to continue its leadership in both the film and tourism industries for years to come.